Abnormal Psychology

508 CHAPTER 11

and anxieties that can lead to high levels of sympathetic nervous system activity

(neurological factor), which physically interferes with sexual arousal and orgasm

(Apfelbaum, 2001; Kaplan, 1981; Masters & Johnson, 1970). Current problems in

a relationship (social factors) similarly affect sexual functioning, as can having been

sexually abused (Bartoi & Kinder, 1998; Becker, 1989; DiLillo, 2001; Laumann,

Paik, & Rosen, 1999).

Familial and cultural views of sexuality (social factors) can also infl uence sexual

functioning (psychological and neurological factors): We are all taught various les-

sons about sexuality both directly (what our parents, teachers, religious leaders, and

11.4 • Feedback Loops in Action: Sexual Dysfunctions

Figure 11.4

11 4 FdbkL iAti S lDf ti

g4

Affect Behavior

Brain and Bodily

Systems

Neural Communication Genetics

NeuroPsychoSocial

NeuroPsychoSocial

Anxiety, fear,

and other

negative

feelings

associated with

sex or with

partner

Negative

conditioning

experiences

For some dysfunctions,

brain areas involved in

anxiety

Illness, disease,

surgical and

medication side effects

Aging

For some dysfunctions,

neural communication

involved in anxiety

No known major

contribution

Mental Processes and

Mental Contents

Negative thoughts

associated with sex

Negative thoughts

about partner

Hypervigilance about

performance

Gender/Culture

Couple

Poor quality of

relationship

NeuroPsychoSocial

Stressful Life Events

History of sexual abuse

Cultural and familial

views about sex and

appropriate behavior

for each gender